Diddley died Monday, surrounded by family and loved ones at his home in Archer, Florida, a family spokeswoman said.

The cause was heart failure, his family said.

The world-renowned guitarist's signature beat -- usually played onan equally distinctive rectangular-bodied guitar -- laid the foundation for rock'n' roll, and became so identified with him that it became known as the "BoDiddley" beat. It was unlike anything else heard in pop music.

He was still pretty good. And there's no denying his influence on rock and roll.